7 Videos,
South Dakota State University: Rankings, Cost, Programs, Placements
322 acre campus- Estd. 1881
Last updated on 29 Oct '25SD stateWhat's new?
- The Spring 2026 (January) application deadline for undergraduate students is now closed.
About South Dakota State University
Established in 1881, South Dakota State University is based in South Dakota, USA and is accredited by the HLC. The institute offers more than 200-degree programs for its international and domestic students. Based on fall enrollment 2024 data, the university currently has more than 12,065 students coming from 47 states and 77 countries worldwide. The university acceptance rate stands at 86%, which making it somewhat selective to secure admission.
Things to know about South Dakota State University
Here are some interesting facts worth knowing about SDSU:
|
Particulars |
Validation |
|---|---|
|
Establishment |
1881 |
|
Ranking |
|
|
GPA Requirements |
3.0 or higher |
|
Top Majors |
Psychology | Mechanical Engineering |Business |
|
Annual Tuition |
UG : INR 9.15 L - 10.74 L PG : INR 9.32 L - 16.46 L |
|
Acceptance Rate |
Around 86% |
|
Total Courses |
200+ |
|
Public or Private |
Public Research University |
|
Placement Rate |
89% |
History
The original structure was constructed in 1883, six years before the State of South Dakota was established, with money provided by the territory assembly. South Dakota State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts replaced the original name in 1904. The institution was renamed South Dakota State University in 1964.
Students can also read the Study Guide to the USA for International Students
Check out the below videos of South Dakota State University for more Information:
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
South Dakota State University is one of the state’s the largest universities in Brookings, South Dakota, USA. According to the Fall 2024, the University boats around 12,065 students coming from 47 states and 77 countries. Moreover, South Dakota State University is ranked B+ grade by Shiksha Grading. SDSU offers a range of programs at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate levels for its international and domestic students. The University offers a welcoming environment for international students, top academic programs, well-qualified and experienced faculty members, and more.
South Dakota State University is one of the best public research universities in the United States. The University has a rich alumni network all over the world. Additionally, SDSU offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, Ph.D., and doctorate programs including various specializations for its students. According to the Shiksha Grading, South Dakota State University has an overall rank of B+ grade. Moreover, a few of the popular programs at the university are Health professions, Engineering, Business, Management, Business, and more.
SBSU is highly regarded for offering the top academic programs for its international and domestic programs. South Dakota State University offers a variety of majors, specializations, minors, master's degree courses, Ph.D., and professional doctorate programs. Some of the top majors at SDSU are as follows:
- Civil Engineering
- Economics
- Education
- Biology
- Biochemistry
- Architecture
- Biotechnology
- Public Health
- Management
South Dakota State University is known for offering top-notch infrastructure, a welcoming environment, qualified and experienced faculties, the latest technologies for students, and more. Also, SDSU offers various majors, specializations, minors, master's degree courses, Ph.D. programs, and professional doctorate courses for its students. The University offers a range of scholarships for its students which attracts international students the most. Along with this, South Dakota State University has one of the highest placement rates in the United States. The University graduates are working in top companies worldwide. South Dakota State University placement rate is 89%.
South Dakota State University Ranking 2025
South Dakota State University secured its place in the year 2024 among the top universities in the world with #296 ranking according to the US News and World Report. This ranking has seen an improved trend when compared to its past year rank of #299 in 2023.
On the other hand, Shiksha Polpularity Ranking ranked the university at #183 position and US News and World Report ranked it at #1446 in 2024 at Global Universities.
The South Dakota State University courses have also secured ranks #201, #175, #130 for its MS, Others PG, MSN courses, respectively.
#839
#229
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Some of the Engineering course rankings at South Dakota State University are given as follows:
| Year | US News and World Report- Civil Engineering PG | US News & World Report - Electrical Engineering PG |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 137 | 168 |
| 2022 | 146 | 170 |
| 2023 | 142 | NA |
According to the US News and World Report Rankings 2023, South Dakota State University has a ranking of #1172. Some of the other rankings at the university are given as follows:
| Year | South Dakota State University |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 1037 |
| 2020 | 1037 |
| 2021 | 1083 |
| 2022 | 1145 |
| 2023 | 1172 |
The University ranking highly influences student's decision to enroll in the university. Shiksha Study Abroad has launched Shiksha Grading. There are various ranking authorities available in the market, but Shiksha Grading stands out of the herd. Shiksha Grading has categorized its ranking into 9 grades such as A+, A, B+, B, C+, and C. South Dakota State University has an overall ranking of B grade as per the Shiksha Grading. Additionally, SDSU courses are mostly ranked in the range of C grade. Moreover, Shiksha Grading grades universities and colleges as per their particular country. Along with this, University courses are graded based on their availability at the colleges or universities in a specific country. Shiksha Grading provides rankings for universities, colleges, and programs all under one system, freeing students from the hassle of comparing rankings from different authorities.
South Dakota State University Programs
South Dakota State University is recognized for offering the best academic programs for its international and domestic students. South Dakota State University offers around 200 course offerings, 88 majors, 37 specializations, 106 minors, 38 master's degree courses, 16 Ph.D. programs, and 2 professional doctorate courses to international students. Some of the popular courses at the university are Health professions, Engineering, Business, Management, Marketing, Education, Biology and Biomedical Sciences. Moreover, a few of the most popular university opted by international students are as follows:
SDSU Top Courses
South Dakota State University top courses that Shiksha Grading ranks is as follows:
|
Top Courses |
Shiksha Grading |
|---|---|
|
Civil Engineering |
C |
|
Electrical Engineering |
C |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
C |
NOTE: What makes Shiksha Grading stand out is that the website uses the aggregate of all the publicly available university and course rankings from top-ranking publishers and maps it into 9 buckets - A++, A+, A, B++, B+, B, C++, C+, and C. In this method, universities are graded by country, and courses are graded by availability at the college in a particular country.
Guided 4.4K students to USA universities.
13.7K+ students got admitted through us.
13.7K+ students got admitted through us.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
South Dakota State University offers over 200 degree programs, including undergraduate and postgraduate programs for its international students. SDSU popular programs include Business, Management, Marketing, Engineering, Biology and Biomedical Sciences. Moreover, some of the top programs at the university that are ranked by Shiksha Grading is as follows:
Top Courses | Shiksha Grading |
|---|---|
Civil Engineering | C |
Electrical Engineering | C |
Mechanical Engineering | C |
NOTE: What makes Shiksha Grading stand out is that the website uses the aggregate of all the publicly available university and course rankings from top-ranking publishers and maps it into 9 buckets - A+, A, B+, B, C+, and C. In this method, universities are graded by country, and courses are graded by availability at the college in a particular country.
South Dakota State University is known for offering the best academic programs for its international and domestic students. The University offers a wide range of programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. South Dakota State University offers around 200 course offerings, 88 majors, 37 specializations, 106 minors, 38 master's degree courses, 16 Ph.D. programs, and 2 professional doctorate courses to international students. Some of the top programs at university that are opted by international students include Computer Science M.S. and Masters in Data Science. A graphical represenation of popular chosen by alumni is as follows:
South Dakota State University Admission 2026
For South Dakota State University admission, Indian students have to apply online through the official website. The general admission requirements include meeting the entry requirements and English language proficiency requirements. The South Dakota State University accepts English Language exam scores such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Duolingo as a proof. Also at the end of application process, there is an application fee. To complete the application process, students are required to submit a few documents such as LOR.
- Application fees :USD 20 - 93
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
SDSU offers admission for international students in two intakes such as Fall and Spring intakes. South Dakota State University offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs for its international students. In order to secure admission at SDSU international students must meet the admission and English language requirements at the university. International students can apply at the university through the Official University Portal. Moreover, the South Dakota State University application deadline for undergraduate and postgraduate programs is as follows:
Intakes | UG | PG |
|---|---|---|
Spring 2026 (January) | Nov 1, 2025 | Oct 15, 2025 |
Fall 2026 (August) | Jun 15, 2026 | Apr 15, 2026 |
South Dakota State University is one of the best universities in the United States. The university provides a huge range of UG and PG programs for its international and domestic students. International students who are applying to SDSU can apply via the University Official Portal. Students must apply before the admission deadline to secure admission at the university. Moreover, the South Dakota State University application fee is USD 20 (INR 1,674) for international applicants. Along with this, SDSU has a non-refundable application fee for international students.
SD stateSouth Dakota State University Scholarships
South Dakota State Uni offers range of scholarships and financial aid to indian students based on academic merit or requirements. Some scholarships offered at university are -
- Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship Program
- Aga Khan Foundation
- WU Scholarships
- American Association of University Women
- Nursing Scholarships for international students
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Yes, South Dakota State University offers various scholarships for its international students. Moreover, SDSU scholarships may have eligibility criteria that international students must fulfill. Hence, students must refer to the scholarship-specific page of the university. South Dakota State University scholarships.
- Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship Program
- Aga Khan Foundation
- WU Scholarships
- Margaret McNamara Memorial Fund
- Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship Program
- American Association of University Women
- Nursing Scholarships for international students
18 monthsSouth Dakota State University Job Outcomes
SDSU graduates are consistently in high demand all over the world. South Dakota State University placement rate is 89%. Moreover, the university placement rate attracts international students the most. The placement highlights at SDSU is given below:
- South Dakota State University graduate students work in top companies such as HDR, POET, First Bank & Trust, Intel Corporation, CNH, etc.
- SBSU graduates are placed in leading working sectors that include Operations, Business Development, Engineering, Information Technology, and more.
- Also, SDSU graduates are highly skilled in Leadership, Public Speaking, Project Management, Strategic Planning, etc.
- The top program preferences of SDSU alumni are Mechanical Engineering, Economics, Psychology, Biology, and more.
ROI After Education
The average salary earned by graduates after studying at the institute is USD 74,000 (INR 61.64 LPA) per year.
Top Employers
Some of the top employers at the South Dakota State University are mentioned below:
- Stanford Health
- Avera Health
- State of South Dakota
- Monument Health
- Mayo Clinic
- POET
- HDR
- CNH
- Intel Corporation
Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
SDSU has one of the highest placement rates in the United States. South Dakota State University graduates are always in high demand worldwide. Moreover, South Dakota State University placement rate is 89%. Additionally, SDSU graduates are working for leading sectors such as Engineering, Information Technology, Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, and more. Some of the top employers at the South Dakota State University are mentioned below:
- Stanford Health
- Daktronics
- Avera Health
- State of South Dakota
- Monument Health
- Mayo Clinic
- POET
- HDR
- CNH
- Northwestern Mutual
- Burns & McDonnell
- Intel Corporation
South Dakota State University Fees
South Dakota State University tuition fee & duration vary from program to program. Additionally, the average tuition fee for undergraduate programs at SDSU ranges from INR 9.15 L - 10.74 L. SDSU's average tuition fee for PG programs ranges between INR 9.32 L - 16.46 L. Check the table mentioned below.
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(17 courses) | INR 9 L - 18 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 - 6.5, TOEFL: 71 - 90, PTE, Duolingo: 100 - 115 |
B.E. / B.Tech(8 courses) | INR 10 L - 12 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2-4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above, Duolingo: 90 & Above |
MBA/PGDM(3 courses) | INR 9 L - 12 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 - 90, PTE, Duolingo: 110 - 115 |
B.Sc.(8 courses) | INR 10 L - 12 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above, Duolingo: 90 & Above |
BBA(4 courses) | INR 10 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above, Duolingo: 90 & Above |
BHM(1 course) | INR 10 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above, Duolingo: 90 & Above |
M.Arch(1 course) | INR 25 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 100 & Above |
B.Arch(1 course) | INR 11 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above, Duolingo: 90 & Above |
MEng(1 course) | INR 10 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 110 & Above |
BSN(1 course) | INR 11 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 110 & Above |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
The kind of housing, the meal plan, and personal expenses are some of the variables that affect the cost of living at South Dakota State University (SDSU). With accommodation and board included, the projected yearly cost for overseas undergraduate students is USD 12,308. Depending on the kind of housing and meal package, the anticipated cost of attendance for undergraduate students living on campus ranges from USD 18,861 to USD 20,456, while for those living off campus, it ranges from USD 19,719 to USD 21,314. Furthermore, according to College Factual, room and board at SDSU average USD 10,000 annually. As a result, SDSU's cost of living is comparatively low when compared to other American institutions.
SD stateStudent profile
Others
93%
Hispanic
2%
American
1%
Black
1%
Asian
1%
In state
50%
Out of state
47%
Foreign
2%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
South Dakota State University Notable Alumni
The SDSU's alumni network includes a plethora of ex students (45,000) who continue making the uni proud and some of the well known people are given below that form part of the SDSU Alumni Network:
|
Name of Personality |
Profession |
Picture |
|---|---|---|
|
Kristi Noem |
American Politician |
|
|
Adam Vinatieri |
American Former Football |
|
|
Tom Daschle |
American Politician |
|
|
Dallas Goedert |
American Football Tight End |
|
|
Mike Rounds |
American Businessman |
|
|
Nate Wolters |
Former Professional Basketball Player |
|
|
Theodore Schultz |
Agricultural Economist and Chairman |
|
|
Gene Amdahl |
Computer Architect and High-tech Entrepreneur |
|
|
Leo K. Thorsness |
Colonel in USA Airforce |
|
|
Dale Moss |
American Former Football |
|
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
South Dakota State University has a vast alumni network. SDSU has produced more than 100,000 alumni, who are working all over the world and making the university proud of them. The University graduates are placed in leading sectors such as Operations, Business Development, Engineering, Information Technology, and more. The SDSU alumni network includes various famous personalities, gam- changers, mentors, dreamers, innovators, etc. Some of the most famous people who are part of the SDSU alumni network are given below:
- Stephen Censky
- Richard F. Kneip
- Ben Reifel
- Kristi Noem
- Adam Vinatieri
- Tom Daschle
- Dallas Goedert
- Mike Rounds
- Nate Wolters
- Theodore Schultz
- Gene Amdahl
- Leo K. Thorsness
- Dale Moss
A graphical representation of top companies where SDSU’s alumni work are as follows:
College comparison
Compare SD state with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 9.11 L - 18.22 L | #257 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 97.46 K - 16 L | #352 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 8.92 L - 9.2 L | #318 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 9.57 L - 10.77 L | -/- | |
| INR 8.6 L - 16.57 L | -/- | |
| INR 12.07 L - 20.35 L | #232 US News, 2026 |
CompareSD stateStudying in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
South Dakota State University Vs Arkansas State University Vs San Diego State University
South Dakota State University, Arkansas State University, and San Diego State University are the most prominent universities in the United States. Every university has its merits and demerits. When choosing a university students must check various factors before coming to any conclusion. Some major parameters include fee, location, average salary, placement rate, scholarships offered, and more. Moreover, check the comparison given below of these universities. This will surely help students to gain more clarity on these respective universities:
Commonly asked questions On Others
South Dakota State University and Arkansas State University are the most reputable universities for pursuing higher education in the USA. Every university has its pros and cons. Additionally, each student's needs and requirements can differ from one to another. Some crucial factors that students must consider include rankings, average salary, placement rate, and more. According to the Shiksha Grading, South Dakota State University has an overall ranking of B grade and Arkansas State University has an overall ranking of C+ grade. SDSU stands taller as compared to Arkansas State University under the ranking category. The average salary of SDSU graduates is INR 61.94 LPA. Whereas, the average salary of Arkansas State University graduates is INR 56.08 LPA. Hence, in terms of average graduate salary South Dakota State University has the upper hand as compared to Arkansas State University. Furthermore, students also check parameters such as acceptance rate, programs, placement rate, and more.
SD stateAdditional Details
Commonly asked questions On Additional Details 1
On-Campus Living:
- Convenient location for classes.
- Every floor has community assistants to assist with the adjustment to SDSU, and every hallway has full-time staff members.
- Possibility of being involved in student life.
- Creating eternal memories and enduring friendships.
- Safer community and campus.
Off-Campus Living:
- Greater autonomy and seclusion.
- Reduced living expenses in comparison to on-campus housing.
- Freedom to select your own neighborhood and living.
- Arrangements Possibility of a more varied living environment.
Considering above advantages and disadvantages a student can choose.
SD state FAQs
According to the US News and World Report, South Dakota State University has an acceptance rate of 86% making it somewhat selective for admissions for international students. Some of the general admission requirements for students at SDSU are given as follows:
- SAT/ACT scores
- Overall Student GPA
- High School Class Rank
- Letters of Recommendation
- Additional academic factors
SD state
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a year ago
Applying To South Dakota State University with international student status requires having the following admissions requirements :
Academic Qualifications Completing secondary school with the minimum GPA of 2.6 points/4.0 scale of achievement
or Standardized examination tests through ACT/SAT
Qualifyi
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
South Dakota State University acceptance rate is 86%, which makes it not so competitive to secure admission. These figures show that for every 100 students, only 86 students will get admitted to the SDSU. The university accepts international students in two intakes namely Fall and Spring intake. Int
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
International students whose first language is not English must submit the proof of English language test at the SDSU. South Dakota State University accepts various English language tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, PTE, and more. The English language test must be taken within two years of apply
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
South Dakota State University is one of the most prominent universities for higher education in the United States. SDSU is highly ranked by top-ranking authorities in the world. According to the Shiksha Grading, South Dakota State University has an overall ranking of B grade. The SDSU is ranked #296
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
Each semester, South Dakota State University (SDSU) has different application deadlines. The priority deadline is usually around March 15 for the Fall semester and around October 15 for the Spring semester. However, SDSU accepts applications until all available seats are filled because of its rollin
M
Contributor-Level 10
About the author
Study Abroad Expert
SD state
Campus
Front View
Building
SD stateLocation
| University City | Brookings, South Dakota, USA |
SD stateCampuses
1451 Stadium Rd, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
Visit official site
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